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SMU wins prestigious THE Awards Asia 2025 – Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year

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SMU wins prestigious THE Awards Asia 2025 – Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year
Business

Business

SMU wins prestigious THE Awards Asia 2025 – Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year

2025-04-28 15:48 Last Updated At:16:05

SINGAPORE, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore Management University (SMU) is proud to announce that it has been named Winner in the 'Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year' category at the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2025. The accolade was awarded in recognition of SMU-X, the University's flagship industry project-based experiential learning framework that integrates academic knowledge with real-world industry projects.

Held annually, the THE Awards Asia celebrate innovation and excellence across higher education institutions in Asia. Often dubbed the 'Oscars of higher education', the awards recognise outstanding leadership, impactful initiatives, and transformative educational practices across the region.

The accolade marks a significant milestone for SMU-X, pioneered 10 years ago as a differentiating pedagogy, underscoring the University's longstanding commitment to redefining learning through interdisciplinary, collaborative, and experiential approaches.

SMU Provost, Professor Alan Chan, said, "We are deeply honoured to receive this recognition from THE Awards Asia, which is particularly meaningful this year as the University celebrates its 25th anniversary. SMU-X has evolved over the past decade into a distinctive hallmark of our undergraduate and postgraduate education; it exemplifies our belief that learning should not only be rigorous but also relevant, connected, and transformative."

"As we look ahead to the next chapter of SMU-X, we will continue to innovate and scale its impact. We aim to further integrate technology, expand global project opportunities, and deepen partnerships that deliver meaningful and impactful multi-disciplinary solutions. This prestigious award is both a celebration and a call to action," he added.

In the citation, THE Award Asia judges noted that situating learning in the real world is an effective way to prepare students for success beyond university, and lauded SMU for having overcome the challenging practicalities of extending teaching outside the classroom. "SMU fosters a sustainable ecosystem of learning and collaboration that strengthens university-industry synergy and drives continuous pedagogical improvement," noted the judging panel.

SMU-X – an innovative pedagogy that has gained global recognition

Launched in 2015, SMU-X was designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practice. The framework, which spans undergraduate, postgraduate, and continuing education programmes, integrates academic coursework with experiential learning, enabling students to apply knowledge in practical settings. Students work in teams alongside industry professionals from corporations, non-profit organisations, government agencies and community partners to develop insights and recommendations, to tackle specific challenges that reflect evolving industry needs. Meanwhile, faculty members serve as academic mentors, guiding students through research, analysis, and solution development while embedding academic rigour into every project.

By allowing students to work with peers across different disciplines, SMU encourages collaboration and cultivates the teamwork and communication skills inherent to interdisciplinarity. By exposing students to diverse sectors, perspectives and real-world challenges, SMU also prepares them to be effective global citizens beyond Singapore and the region.

From a pilot of 58 students in two courses in 2015, SMU-X has grown to 40,000 enrolments in 170 courses a decade later. SMU-X has facilitated over 6,600 projects with more than 1,200 partners. In the current Academic Year 2024-2025, 78 SMU-X modules are being offered, with about 5,000 students partnering with organisations across all sectors, in Singapore and overseas. 

In addition to its local success, SMU-X has inspired global interest and institutional collaborations. The experiential learning model has been featured in global higher education forums as a best-practice case study in applied learning, and won multiple accolades on the global stage. These include the Green Gown Award 2024 - 'Next Generational Learning and Skills' category; and the 2024 QS Reimagine Education Awards – Gold award and Innovation in Business Education Award

- End -

About Singapore Management University

Established in 2000, Singapore Management University (SMU) is recognised for its disciplinary and multi-disciplinary research that address issues of global relevance, impacting business, government, and society. Its distinctive education incorporating innovative experiential learning, aims to nurture global citizens, entrepreneurs and change agents. Home to over 13,000 students, SMU offers a wide range of bachelor's, master's and PhD degree programmes in the disciplinary areas of Accountancy, Business, Economics, Computing, Law and Social Sciences, as well as in multi-disciplinary combinations of these areas. It also offers a growing number of executive development and continuing education programmes. Through its city campus, SMU focuses on making meaningful impact on Singapore and beyond through its partnerships with industry, policy makers and academic institutions. www.smu.edu.sg

SINGAPORE, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore Management University (SMU) is proud to announce that it has been named Winner in the 'Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year' category at the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2025. The accolade was awarded in recognition of SMU-X, the University's flagship industry project-based experiential learning framework that integrates academic knowledge with real-world industry projects.

Held annually, the THE Awards Asia celebrate innovation and excellence across higher education institutions in Asia. Often dubbed the 'Oscars of higher education', the awards recognise outstanding leadership, impactful initiatives, and transformative educational practices across the region.

The accolade marks a significant milestone for SMU-X, pioneered 10 years ago as a differentiating pedagogy, underscoring the University's longstanding commitment to redefining learning through interdisciplinary, collaborative, and experiential approaches.

SMU Provost, Professor Alan Chan, said, "We are deeply honoured to receive this recognition from THE Awards Asia, which is particularly meaningful this year as the University celebrates its 25th anniversary. SMU-X has evolved over the past decade into a distinctive hallmark of our undergraduate and postgraduate education; it exemplifies our belief that learning should not only be rigorous but also relevant, connected, and transformative."

"As we look ahead to the next chapter of SMU-X, we will continue to innovate and scale its impact. We aim to further integrate technology, expand global project opportunities, and deepen partnerships that deliver meaningful and impactful multi-disciplinary solutions. This prestigious award is both a celebration and a call to action," he added.

In the citation, THE Award Asia judges noted that situating learning in the real world is an effective way to prepare students for success beyond university, and lauded SMU for having overcome the challenging practicalities of extending teaching outside the classroom. "SMU fosters a sustainable ecosystem of learning and collaboration that strengthens university-industry synergy and drives continuous pedagogical improvement," noted the judging panel.

SMU-X – an innovative pedagogy that has gained global recognition

Launched in 2015, SMU-X was designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practice. The framework, which spans undergraduate, postgraduate, and continuing education programmes, integrates academic coursework with experiential learning, enabling students to apply knowledge in practical settings. Students work in teams alongside industry professionals from corporations, non-profit organisations, government agencies and community partners to develop insights and recommendations, to tackle specific challenges that reflect evolving industry needs. Meanwhile, faculty members serve as academic mentors, guiding students through research, analysis, and solution development while embedding academic rigour into every project.

By allowing students to work with peers across different disciplines, SMU encourages collaboration and cultivates the teamwork and communication skills inherent to interdisciplinarity. By exposing students to diverse sectors, perspectives and real-world challenges, SMU also prepares them to be effective global citizens beyond Singapore and the region.

From a pilot of 58 students in two courses in 2015, SMU-X has grown to 40,000 enrolments in 170 courses a decade later. SMU-X has facilitated over 6,600 projects with more than 1,200 partners. In the current Academic Year 2024-2025, 78 SMU-X modules are being offered, with about 5,000 students partnering with organisations across all sectors, in Singapore and overseas. 

In addition to its local success, SMU-X has inspired global interest and institutional collaborations. The experiential learning model has been featured in global higher education forums as a best-practice case study in applied learning, and won multiple accolades on the global stage. These include the Green Gown Award 2024 - 'Next Generational Learning and Skills' category; and the 2024 QS Reimagine Education Awards – Gold award and Innovation in Business Education Award

- End -

About Singapore Management University

Established in 2000, Singapore Management University (SMU) is recognised for its disciplinary and multi-disciplinary research that address issues of global relevance, impacting business, government, and society. Its distinctive education incorporating innovative experiential learning, aims to nurture global citizens, entrepreneurs and change agents. Home to over 13,000 students, SMU offers a wide range of bachelor's, master's and PhD degree programmes in the disciplinary areas of Accountancy, Business, Economics, Computing, Law and Social Sciences, as well as in multi-disciplinary combinations of these areas. It also offers a growing number of executive development and continuing education programmes. Through its city campus, SMU focuses on making meaningful impact on Singapore and beyond through its partnerships with industry, policy makers and academic institutions. www.smu.edu.sg

** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **

SMU wins prestigious THE Awards Asia 2025 – Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year

SMU wins prestigious THE Awards Asia 2025 – Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year

Welcoming the Year of the Horse in Bali's leading luxury family resort.

BALI, Indonesia, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ritz-Carlton, Bali invites guests to embrace the auspicious spirit of the Lunar New Year with a curated collection of festive dining experiences designed to unite families in an atmosphere of warmth, celebration, and refined indulgence. This year's highlights include a sumptuous Lunar New Year's Eve Dinner and an elegant Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea, each thoughtfully crafted to honor cherished traditions while elevating the holiday with contemporary flair.

The Lunar New Year's Eve Dinner at Senses presents a vibrant culinary celebration overlooking the resort's beautifully manicured garden. Guests are welcomed to savor an abundant buffet featuring freshly steamed dim sum, golden spring rolls, decadent roast duck, fragrant wok-fried specialties, and symbolic dishes representing prosperity, longevity, and good fortune. Complemented by live carving stations and traditional festive desserts, this memorable evening invites families to gather in the spirit of unity and abundance. Available on 16 February 2026 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., priced at IDR 1,000,000++ per person.

For those seeking a more leisurely celebration, the Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea offers a refined experience inspired by timeless Asian traditions. Guests can indulge in handcrafted sweet and savory delights, including mandarin orange cake, crispy vegetable money bags symbolizing good fortune, dried fruits, plums, and other festive treats. Paired with premium loose-leaf teas and enjoyed against panoramic ocean views, this elevated experience sets the tone for meaningful moments shared with loved ones. Available from 15–20 February 2026, priced at IDR 1,100,000++ for two people.

"We are delighted to welcome guests to The Ritz-Carlton, Bali for this meaningful celebration of the Lunar New Year," said Go Kondo, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. "Our culinary teams have thoughtfully crafted experiences that honor cherished traditions while showcasing the richness of Asian flavors."

For more information, please visit the website at ritzcarltonbali.com or email rc.dpssw.restaurant.reservation@ritzcarlton.com.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

Built on a sprawling 12.7 hectares white beach front and elevated cliff top settings, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali feature 313 oceanfront suites and villas, enjoying the unobstructed view of the Indian Ocean and the resort's lush garden. Completing the experiences, a glass elevator connects the cliff and the beach-front, five restaurants and bars, The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom and meeting facilities, a wedding chapel, as well as The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Ladies and gentlemen at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali is proudly presents the timeless charms of Indo-Balinese hospitality.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC

Delivering the Gold Standard in service in coveted destinations around the world, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC currently operates more than 120 hotels in over 35 countries and territories. From iconic urban destinations to stretches of paradise in untouched corners of the earth, The Ritz-Carlton offers the opportunity for true discovery and transformative escapes that stay with guests long after they depart. Committed to thoughtful innovation, The Ritz-Carlton encompasses two groundbreaking brand extensions, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a collection of rare estates set apart from the world, where personalized care and cultural immersion are paramount. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection translates the brand's legendary service and hospitality for sea, reimagining the ultra-luxury cruising category. For more information or reservations, visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, X, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. The Ritz-Carlton is committed to supporting the destinations where it operates through Community Footprints, the company's social and environmental responsibility program.

Welcoming the Year of the Horse in Bali's leading luxury family resort.

BALI, Indonesia, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ritz-Carlton, Bali invites guests to embrace the auspicious spirit of the Lunar New Year with a curated collection of festive dining experiences designed to unite families in an atmosphere of warmth, celebration, and refined indulgence. This year's highlights include a sumptuous Lunar New Year's Eve Dinner and an elegant Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea, each thoughtfully crafted to honor cherished traditions while elevating the holiday with contemporary flair.

The Lunar New Year's Eve Dinner at Senses presents a vibrant culinary celebration overlooking the resort's beautifully manicured garden. Guests are welcomed to savor an abundant buffet featuring freshly steamed dim sum, golden spring rolls, decadent roast duck, fragrant wok-fried specialties, and symbolic dishes representing prosperity, longevity, and good fortune. Complemented by live carving stations and traditional festive desserts, this memorable evening invites families to gather in the spirit of unity and abundance. Available on 16 February 2026 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., priced at IDR 1,000,000++ per person.

For those seeking a more leisurely celebration, the Lunar New Year Afternoon Tea offers a refined experience inspired by timeless Asian traditions. Guests can indulge in handcrafted sweet and savory delights, including mandarin orange cake, crispy vegetable money bags symbolizing good fortune, dried fruits, plums, and other festive treats. Paired with premium loose-leaf teas and enjoyed against panoramic ocean views, this elevated experience sets the tone for meaningful moments shared with loved ones. Available from 15–20 February 2026, priced at IDR 1,100,000++ for two people.

"We are delighted to welcome guests to The Ritz-Carlton, Bali for this meaningful celebration of the Lunar New Year," said Go Kondo, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. "Our culinary teams have thoughtfully crafted experiences that honor cherished traditions while showcasing the richness of Asian flavors."

For more information, please visit the website at ritzcarltonbali.com or email rc.dpssw.restaurant.reservation@ritzcarlton.com.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

Built on a sprawling 12.7 hectares white beach front and elevated cliff top settings, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali feature 313 oceanfront suites and villas, enjoying the unobstructed view of the Indian Ocean and the resort's lush garden. Completing the experiences, a glass elevator connects the cliff and the beach-front, five restaurants and bars, The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom and meeting facilities, a wedding chapel, as well as The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Ladies and gentlemen at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali is proudly presents the timeless charms of Indo-Balinese hospitality.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC

Delivering the Gold Standard in service in coveted destinations around the world, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC currently operates more than 120 hotels in over 35 countries and territories. From iconic urban destinations to stretches of paradise in untouched corners of the earth, The Ritz-Carlton offers the opportunity for true discovery and transformative escapes that stay with guests long after they depart. Committed to thoughtful innovation, The Ritz-Carlton encompasses two groundbreaking brand extensions, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a collection of rare estates set apart from the world, where personalized care and cultural immersion are paramount. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection translates the brand's legendary service and hospitality for sea, reimagining the ultra-luxury cruising category. For more information or reservations, visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, X, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. The Ritz-Carlton is committed to supporting the destinations where it operates through Community Footprints, the company's social and environmental responsibility program.

** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **

Celebrate Prosperity and Togetherness at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

Celebrate Prosperity and Togetherness at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

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